It's all over social media these days — a reminder that "A Zoom Thanksgiving is better than an ICU Christmas."
Health officials are increasingly worried that large Thanksgiving gatherings could spread COVID-19. Across the country, coronavirus infections are already surging as people start to spend more time indoors and pandemic fatigue sets in.
Last week, Gov. Ralph Northam acknowledged that fatigue, even as he put in place limits on social gatherings and more in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“Everyone is tired of this pandemic and the restrictions on our lives. I’m tired, and I know you’re tired, too. But, as we saw earlier this year, these mitigation measures work,” Northam said.
In Alexandria, the 7-day moving average of cases is up to 29.9, an increase from 25 a week ago. Statewide, the percent-positivity rate of tests is at 7.1%, up from 4.7% in early October. The 7-day average of confirmed cases is now above 1,400 per day statewide.
So, is Thanksgiving safe?
Thanksgiving is traditionally the heaviest travel weekend of the year. The Alexandria Dept. of Health (and health officials nationwide) are asking people to stay home and host just a small thanksgiving with the people in their household. Large family gatherings should be off the table, as should standing in line at Black Friday sales. (Shop local, safely instead!)
Alexandria Dept. of Health
